Watercolour vs Acrylics: Which Paint is Better for Beginners & Artists?

When we pick up a brush for the very first time, there’s always that classic question: Should I paint with watercolours or acrylics? The debate of watercolour vs acrylics has followed artists for decades. Both mediums carry their own essence, charm and value. The choice isn’t about better or worse, but about what resonates with your personality and study of art.

The elegance of watercolours

Watercolours have an elegant, timeless quality. Their transparency allows light to shine through the pigments, creating a glow that feels alive on paper. A soft wash of blue suggests the sky, while a delicate stroke of green captures the freshness of spring.

I find that watercolours carry the essence of spontaneity. The colours run, blend and surprise in ways no other paint can. Of course, this unpredictability is part of the charm, but it can also make beginners hesitant. Mistakes are difficult to fix, and using the right paper is essential. Yet, once you understand how water and pigment interact, the results are magical.

Best watercolour brands in India and abroad

For beginners, Camel (Camlin Kokuyo) and Brustro are among the best watercolour brands in India. Affordable and widely available, they are perfect for students and hobbyists. For advanced artists, international names like Winsor & Newton, Daniel Smith, and Sennelier offer exceptional pigment quality and richness of colour.

The strength of acrylics

Acrylic paints, on the other hand, are all about boldness and versatility. They dry fast, adhere to multiple surfaces, and can be layered endlessly. Unlike watercolours, where one mistake can ruin the painting, acrylics let you paint over errors. This makes them one of the best paints for beginners still building confidence.

What I personally love about acrylics is their flexibility. When thinned with water, they behave like watercolours; when applied thickly, they resemble oils. They are truly the chameleon of the art world.

Best acrylic paint brands in India and abroad

In India, Fevicryl is the most popular brand, perfect for craft projects and canvas work alike. Brustro Acrylics are another great choice for those wanting stronger pigmentation. For international options, Liquitex, Golden Acrylics, and Daler Rowney stand out for professionals seeking quality and consistency.

Watercolour vs Acrylics: A quick study

⦁ Transparency: Watercolours are delicate and translucent; acrylics are bold and opaque.

⦁ Corrections: Watercolours are unforgiving; acrylics allow easy fixes.

⦁ Drying time: Watercolours dry fast but can be reactivated; acrylics dry quickly and stay permanent.

⦁ Surfaces: Watercolours require special paper; acrylics work on canvas, wood, paper or even fabric.

⦁ Style: Watercolours capture elegance and flow; acrylics express boldness and texture.

How e-commerce has changed the art world

When I first started painting, finding good art materials was difficult. Most local shops had only limited options. But today, things are different.

Thanks to e-commerce platforms, artists can buy art supplies online with ease. From beginner-friendly Camel paints to imported Daniel Smith tubes, everything is available at a click. Platforms like Amazon India, Flipkart, and specialist art stores such as Himalaya Fine Art have opened new avenues for beginners and professionals alike. Now, no matter where you live, you can access the best paint brands instantly.

This accessibility has given confidence to new learners and allowed professionals to experiment with global supplies. I see it as a small revolution, geography is no longer a barrier to creativity.

So, which is better?

So, which is better: watercolour or acrylics? The truth is, neither is superior. If you love elegance, lightness and the unpredictable charm of colour flow, watercolours will speak to you. If you want boldness, versatility and the ability to correct mistakes, acrylics may be your best companion.

Personally, I believe every artist should study both. Watercolours teach patience and subtlety; acrylics encourage boldness and experimentation. Together, they enrich your artistic journey.

Next time you pick up a brush, ask yourself: Do I want the gentle whisper of watercolours, or the bold statement of acrylics? Perhaps, like me, you’ll find room for both.

Image Source: Pramod Sharma. Do not reproduce this art work sans permission